Company Registration in Switzerland– An Overview

Aspect Details
Fees for Company Registration in Switzerland Starts from US$ 3000
Timeline for Company Formation in Switzerland Usually takes about 3 to 4 Weeks
Benefits of Company Registration in Switzerland

Benefits of company registration in Switzerland include the following:

  • Political and Economic Stability
  • Favourable Tax System
  • Double Tax Agreement (DTA)
  • Strategic Location
  • World-Class Infrastructure
  • Access to Skilled Workforce
  • Robust Financial Markets
  • Transparent Legal System
Types of Company Formation in Switzerland

Types of company formation in Switzerland include the following:

  • Limited Liability Company (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung)
  • Stock Corporation (Aktiengesellschaft)
  • Sole Proprietorship (Einzelfirma)
  • General Partnership (Kollektivgesellschaft)
  • Limited Partnership (Kommanditgesellschaft)
Documents Required for Company Formation in Switzerland

Documents required for company formation in Switzerland include the following:

  • Company Name Approval Certificate
  • Articles of Association (AoA)
  • Company Bylaws
  • ID Proofs - Passport copies
  • Proof of Residency
  • Shareholder Agreement (if applicable)
  • Proof of the Payment of the Share Capital
Top Businesses for Foreign Entrepreneurs in Switzerland

Some of the top businesses for foreign entrepreneurs in Switzerland include the following:

  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Adventure tourism
  • Chocolate production
  • High-end watch manufacturing
  • High-end watch manufacturing
How can we Help You?

Start a Swiss Business with Company Formation in Switzerland

Tap into a Booming economy of $800 Billion with Company formation in Switzerland.

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Company Registration in Switzerland is a Joyride with Us

Favourable business policies, a supportive ecosystem, tax benefits, a skilled talent pool, and a robust economy have positioned Switzerland as one of Europe's most sought-after business hubs for international entrepreneurs. Company registration in Switzerland is a simple process with experts at Enterslice, making it a preferred business destination by entrepreneurs and investors.

Switzerland is a beautiful country popular among global tourists. However, over the last few years, the Swiss government's commitment has turned the country into an investor's paradise.

Switzerland is committed to innovation and technological advancement. If you are an entrepreneur seeking company formation in Switzerland, now is the right time to do so and join the thriving GDP that is set to breach the $897.33 billion mark in 2025. Consult professionals at Enterslice and let us make company registration in Switzerland as easy as ABC for you, along with saving your time and money.

Low Inflation Rate

Favourable Tax Rates

Booming Economy

Access to European Markets

Robust Infrastructure

Strategic Location Advantage

Business Structures for Company Incorporation in Switzerland

Various types of company incorporation in Switzerland are available to global entrepreneurs, who can choose the one that suits their business needs and aligns with their operational flexibility, legal protection, and expansion goals. The types of business structures for company registration in Switzerland include:

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Limited Liability Company (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung)

Company registration in Switzerland as a limited liability company, also known as Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung, requires a minimum of two shareholders, a minimum share capital of CHF 20,000 and one Swiss resident director. Members enjoy a limited liability restricted to the amount contributed.

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Stock Corporation (Aktiengesellschaft)

Stock corporations are another type of company formation in Switzerland that requires at least three shareholders, who contribute a share capital of CHF 100,000. Known as Aktiengesellschaf, the stock corporation limits the liability of its members to the amount contributed to the business. However, it mandates that the manager be a local resident who must also be a shareholder.

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Sole Proprietorship (Einzelfirma)

One of the simplest forms of Switzerland company registration is a sole proprietorship, also known as Einzelfirma. It facilitates a single owner to manage, operate, supervise and administer the business. The owner is wholly responsible for business debts and obligations. Starting a sole proprietorship in Switzerland does not require minimum share capital. However, if the annual turnover exceeds CHF 100,000, the business must register with the Trade Register.

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General Partnership (Kollektivgesellschaft)

To register company in Switzerland as a general partnership requires at least two members. Known as kollektivgesellschaft, a general partnership is formed to fulfil a specific purpose. A general partnership mandates the partners to enter into an agreement outlining the conditions to operate the business. While there is no minimum share capital requirement, the liability of the partners in a general partnership is unlimited.

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Limited Partnership (Kommanditgesellschaft)

Switzerland company register as a limited partnership requires a minimum of one partner with an unlimited liability and one partner with a liability restricted to the share capital contribution in the business. Known as Kommanditgesellschaft, this type of Switzerland company formation mandates a partnership agreement and must be registered in the Swiss Commercial Register.

Procedure for Company Registration in Switzerland

Company registration in Switzerland is a stepwise process that usually takes 3 to 4 weeks. While the process for Switzerland company registration for non-residents is time-consuming and tiresome, here’s how Enterslice can help you simplify the process for company formation in Switzerland-

Choose Company Type & Business Name

The process for company incorporation in Switzerland starts with choosing the most suitable company type based on the business needs and selecting a unique business name.

Open a Corporate Bank Account

This step involves opening a corporate account with a Swiss bank and depositing minimum share capital to meet the compliance requirement for the selected business structure.

Draft Articles of Association & Public Deed

This next step comprises preparing the Articles of Association (AoA) and the public deed of incorporation, reflecting the business structure and governance rules.

Notary Signing & Stampa Declaration

It is important to have the Articles of Association (AoA) and public deed of incorporation signed by a local public notary. The business must also complete the Stampa Declaration and Lex Friedrich Declaration forms.

Submit Documents for Switzerland Company Formation

Submitting incorporation documents, including forms and notarized deeds, to the Swiss Trade Register is a must to complete the Switzerland company registration application process.

Timeline for Switzerland Company Registration

Depending on the accuracy of the process, it takes 4 weeks for Switzerland company registration. A detailed timeline for company registration in Switzerland is given below:

Choose Company Type & Business Name – 3 to 4 Working Days

Choosing a company type and unique business name takes between 3 to 4 working days.

Open Corporate Bank Account – 5 to 7 Working days

Opening a corporate account with a Swiss bank takes between 5 to 7 working days.

Draft Articles of Association & Public Deed – 4 to 5 Working Days

Drafting the Articles of Association (AoA) and public deed takes between 4 to 5 working days.

Notary Signing & Stampa Declaration – 2 to 3 days

Notary signing and stampa declaration takes 3 to 3 working days to complete.

Documents Required for Company Registration in Switzerland

Company registration in Switzerland requires businesses to submit various documents to initiate the registration process, including the following:

ID Proofs - Passport Copies

Proof of Residency

Proof of Registered Office Address

Bank Confirmation Certificate

Declaration of Acceptance - Directors

Company Name Approval Certificate

Company Bylaws

Articles of Association (AoA)

Auditor Confirmation (if applicable)

Shareholder Agreement (if applicable)

Power of Attorney (if applicable)

Proof of the Payment of the Share Capital

Taxation- Switzerland Company Registration for Non-Residents

Global entrepreneurs can leverage Switzerland's transparent and competitive taxation composition to maximize profitability by boosting operational efficiency and reducing expenses. Switzerland company registration for non-residents must pay a federal corporate tax rate of 8.5% on profit after tax. However, cantonal tax rates are different. While Lucerne's combined effective tax rate amounts to 11.9%, Zurich's rate is around 21.0%.

Entrepreneurs who register business in Switzerland as non-resident, their shareholders are subject to a withholding tax of 35%. However, the standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 8%, and no reduced rates are applicable. It is a great time to register business in Switzerland as its economy is projected to grow in 2025 and is expected to hit $897.33 billion by the end of 2025.

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Benefits of Company Incorporation in Switzerland

A prime destination in Europe, company incorporation in Switzerland offers unparalleled benefits to global entrepreneurs, including a stable economy and tax incentives. Key benefits for company registration in Switzerland include the following:

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Political and Economic Stability

Company registration in Switzerland allows global entrepreneurs to leverage one of the world's most prosperous and 20th most successful economies for business gains. This stability is ideal for long-term business growth.

Favourable Tax System

Global entrepreneurs seeking company incorporation in Switzerland can benefit from a transparent tax system that ensures a competitive federal corporate tax rate of 8.5%. Businesses can also benefit from flexible cantonal rates and other tax incentives offered by the government to support new business incorporations.

Double Tax Agreement (DTA)

Foreign investors can leverage company formation in Switzerland to benefit from its Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with 60 countries. Company registration in Switzerland company registration for non-residents levies value-added tax (VAT) at 8%, which is lower than in other European nations, making it one of the best investment destinations in the world.

Strategic Location

Company registration in Switzerland enables global businesses to leverage its strategic location. Located in the heart of Europe, company registration in Switzerland for non-residents enables them to use its market connectivity to access different markets across Europe to market their products and services and boost profitability through international operations.

World-Class Infrastructure

Entrepreneurs who register a company in Switzerland can benefit from its advanced infrastructure, including its well-regulated transportation system, contemporary facilities, and high-speed internet access, to streamline business processes and achieve operational efficiency.

Access to Skilled Workforce

Entrepreneurs who register business in Switzerland can access its highly educated and multilingual talent pool to drive excellence, achieve business goals and boost productivity. Swiss people are professionals with diverse expertise across various sectors. Company registration in Switzerland for non-residents facilitates hiring international workforce.

Robust Financial Markets

Entrepreneurs who register business in Switzerland, can benefit from its robust financial sector, strengthened by its secure banking services. Swiss financial markets are safe, enabling businesses to seek funding opportunities from diverse sources.

Transparent Legal System

Company registration in Switzerland allows businesses to operate in an investment-friendly ecosystem, enabling businesses to leverage its transparent legal system to safeguard intellectual property and investor rights.

Prerequisites for Company Registration in Switzerland

Get a glimpse of the prerequisites for company registration in Switzerland-

  • Legal Structure: Choosing an appropriate legal form for Switzerland company formation, such as a limited liability company (GmbH), sole proprietorship, or corporation (AG).
  • Company Name Registration: Ensuring the uniqueness of the business name in compliance with Swiss naming protocols and registering it with the Swiss Federal Commercial Registry Office (FCRO).
  • Minimum Share Capital: Depositing the required minimum capital into a Swiss bank account is mandatory for company registration in Switzerland for non-residents.
  • Appoint Directors: For company registration in Switzerland, one director must be a Swiss resident with a valid work permit.
  • Register with Commercial Register: To register a company in Switzerland, you must submit documents such as proof of share capital deposit to the Swiss Commercial Register.

Govt Support for Investors to Register Company in Switzerland

Global entrepreneurs prefer company registration in Switzerland owing to various factors that have positioned it as one of the significant business hubs in the world. Political stability, thriving financial markets, a robust economy, advanced infrastructure and favourable tax policies are pivotal to register company in Switzerland and establishing a presence in Europe. However, the Swiss government's commitment to inviting foreign investment through various initiatives and extensive support systems facilitates company registration in Switzerland for non-residents.

In certain cantons, the government offers tax breaks of up to ten years. On the other hand, the Federal Act on Tax Reform and Swiss Pension System Financing (TRAF) provides uniform corporate tax rates for domestic and foreign-owned businesses, authorizing cantons to deliver customized incentives to drive investment. The Code of Obligations and Cartel Law are key regulations governing foreign investments. Defeating uncertainty and economic volatility, Switzerland ranked 10th in the 2021 AT Kearney FDI Confidence Index. It drives people to register business in Switzerland.

Top Industries for Company Incorporation in Switzerland

The top 10 industries and businesses for foreign entrepreneurs for company incorporation in Switzerland, yielding high returns, include the following:

Top 10 Industries for Company Formation in Switzerland

  • Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
  • Tourism & Hospitality
  • Financial Services
  • IT & Software Development
  • Luxury Goods & Watchmaking
  • Renewable Energy & Clean Technology
  • Agriculture & Food Processing
  • Medical Devices & Healthcare
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management
  • Education & Training Services

Top 10 Businesses for Company Registration in Switzerland

  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing & Biotech R&D
  • Luxury boutique hotels & Adventure tourism services
  • Wealth management consultancy & Fintech startups
  • Cybersecurity solutions & AI-driven software development
  • Custom jewellery design & High-end watch manufacturing
  • Solar energy solutions & Energy-efficient products
  • Organic dairy farming & Chocolate and confectionery production
  • Medical device manufacturing & Telemedicine services
  • International freight forwarding & Supply chain optimization
  • International schools & Corporate training programs

Post Setup Compliance After Switzerland Company Registration

Businesses are required to meet the post-registration compliance requirements to ensure smooth business operations after company formation in Switzerland, including:

  • Registration with the Commercial Register
  • VAT registration
  • Opening a corporate bank account
  • Appointing directors
  • Depositing required share capital
  • Obtaining important permits & licenses
  • Meeting tax & accounting compliance requirements
  • Compliance with employment regulations
  • Maintaining corporate records
  • Conducting Annual General Meetings (AGMs)
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Why Opt for Enterslice for Company Registration in Switzerland?

Enterslice has extensive experience with company registration in Switzerland. For 10+ years, we have helped entrepreneurs from across the globe register company in Switzerland. As a team of professionals and 100+ local Swiss consultants, we are committed to facilitating effortless Switzerland company registration services for our clients. Reasons why you should choose us for company registration in Switzerland-

  • In-depth Knowledge of laws, Compliance, and Regulations for Company Formation in Switzerland
  • Assisted 400+ Entrepreneurs Globally in Company Registration in Switzerland
  • Positive Success Rate of 99% for Switzerland Company Registration
  • Quick Turnaround Time of 30%, Best in the Consulting Space
  • Documentation Assistance for Switzerland Company Registration for Non-residents
  • Saved 15 Lakh+ Hours of Entrepreneurs who Registered their Venture in the Swiss Economy
  • Customized Solutions to Register Company in Switzerland
  • Affordable & Quick Company Registration in Switzerland Solutions

FAQs on Company Incorporation in Switzerland

While Switzerland is not considered a tax haven, entrepreneurs can enjoy various benefits from Switzerland company registration for non-residents. Its favourable tax environment comprises low corporate tax rates, including a federal rate of 8.5% and cantonal variations. Besides, the government offers various incentives to foreign entrepreneurs. Switzerland also follows international tax regulations, including anti-money laundering and tax evasion.

Yes, entrepreneurs who register company in Switzerland can enjoy a high living standard there. Company incorporation in Switzerland facilitates global entrepreneurs to benefit from high quality of life, motivating them to achieve their business goals by striking a work-life balance.

The Swiss Federal Commercial Registry Office (FCRO) is a federal agency that unifies data from cantonal registers into a national business database to ensure transparency. This data is published through the Swiss Official Gazette of Commerce. Overall, the FCRO facilitates accountability, trust, and seamlessness in conducting commercial business legally in the country.

If you are a global entrepreneur, you can plan to register company in Switzerland in its fastest-growing sector, technology and innovation. Investing in a business in fintech, biotech, and artificial intelligence promises high profits. You can use its modern infrastructure, government support and skilled workforce to attain operational efficiency and profit.

Global entrepreneurs who register business in Switzerland as non-resident must comply with all the post-registration compliance requirements to ensure the business operates without any legal hassles. One such compliance mandate is registering for VAT if the business exceeds the annual threshold revenue turnover of CHF 100,000 or USD 1,09,521 (approximately). However, registration must be done within 30 days of reaching this threshold limit.

The cost of starting a business in Switzerland usually starts from US$ 3000 with Enterslice, depending on the type of company structure. It also includes additional charges, such as notary charges, commercial register fees, professional consultation fees, and bank account setup. You can contact Enterslice to learn more about Switzerland company registration.

Company registration in Switzerland allows global entrepreneurs to leverage various benefits to boost the business's profitability. Top five cities for Switzerland company registration include:

  • Zurich
  • Geneva
  • Basel
  • Lausanne
  • Lucerne

To register Indian company in Switzerland, you must follow the company incorporation process and meet the compliance requirements. You must start by choosing a suitable company structure, collecting the required paperwork, opening a corporate bank account and submitting the incorporation forms to the Swiss Trade Register.

Switzerland company registration for non-residents offers various benefits, including access to a robust economy, low corporate tax rates, modern infrastructure, and investor-friendly policies. Switzerland has stringent intellectual property protection laws, a multilingual talent pool and access to vast European and global markets.

The procedure to register company in Switzerland follows a methodical approach. It starts with choosing the right business structure, preparing the paperwork, opening a corporate account with a Swiss bank, and submitting all the incorporation forms to the Swiss Trade Register for registration.

Company formation in Switzerland yields profitable results for global entrepreneurs. It is home to some of the world's multinational giants. Some of the largest multinational companies headquartered in Switzerland include Nestle, Swiss Re, Novartis, Credit Suisse Group, Zurich Insurance Group, UBS, Roche, ABB, Glencore, and Vitol. These companies are global leaders across different industry sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, insurance, banking, and energy.

Switzerland is a beautiful country and one of the world's favourite tourist destinations. With stunning landscapes and a tranquil charm, it attracts millions of travellers from all over the world. Top 10 tourist destinations include the following:

  • The Matterhorn, Zermatt
  • Château de Chillon, Montreux
  • Jungfraujoch
  • Lake Geneva
  • Lucerne
  • St. Moritz
  • Interlaken
  • Rhine Falls
  • Bern
  • Grindelwald

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